Antipasti: Delicious Italian First Courses - Tapa dura

Everyone loves Italian food with its taste so redolent of the countryside: basil, tomatoes and fresh ingredients. And there is far more to it than just pasta. Food writer Clare Ferguson brings us "Antipasti", tasty starters to grace any dining table. Served individually or as part of a larger platter, these colourful dishes are sure to go down well with guests, whetting the appetite for the main course or being treated as a meal in itself accompanied by a bottle of wine and freshly baked bread. From vegetarian caponata and raddicio with gorgonzola and walnuts to fishy squid with gremolata and marinated anchovies. Bresaola and rocket with olive oil and parmesan and prosciutto crudo with fresh figs for meat lovers. Pretty parmesan wafers and deep-fried zucchini flowers for a decorative finish. All gloriously photographed by Peter Cassidy, the flavours leap from the page, enticing the reader to make them. So for something a little different, try these recipes - decorative, easy to prepare and a joy to eat, they are an ideal light appetiser for courses to come. - Lucy Watson

A collection of 30 recipes for fresh, modern versions of best-loved Italian antipasti. Deliciously healthy and bursting with the flavours of Italy, the creations in this book are also perfect for light lunches or snacks, can be served hot or warm, and are all prepared in a uniquely Italian way.